Springing forward causes many people to fall behind on sleep, but experts say the time changes could have more far-reaching and subtle effects than just drowsiness.

Clocks will move forward an hour Sunday at 2 a.m., when daylight saving time goes into effect. However, the built-in biological clock that controls the body is much more difficult to change than a kitchen appliance.

Dr. Andre Aguillon, a sleep medicine specialist at the University of Toledo, says light is the chief regulator of humans’ circadian rhythm, commonly referred to as a “biological clock.” When that rhythm is suddenly changed, the body reacts.

“You’re causing misalignment between one’s own circadian biological clock and the light-dark cycle,” he said. “With this time change, you have less exposure to light in the morning and a greater exposure to evening light.”

That one-hour shift, though it may seem minor, can have a range of ripple effects on public health. A study of hospital admissions across Michigan showed a 24 percent increase in heart attacks the day following the time change, and another published in the journal Current Biology showed the risk of a fatal accident increased by 6 percent.

Poor quality sleep can also cause an increase in blood pressure and blood sugar, disruptions in mood, fatigue, and memory problems. 

Dr. Aguillon said the best way to counter sleep loss from daylight saving time is to get ahead of it. Rather than catching up after the time change, go to bed an hour early Saturday night.

“I would say that on Saturday night, try to end your day earlier and go to bed earlier,” he said. “Going to bed earlier than you usually do can help with that transition.”

But the time change isn’t all bad, Dr. Aguillon said.

Having more sunlight after work and school hours encourages people to get outside and be active, which could improve mood and get people out of their winter funk.

“Absolutely, I think the more exposure to natural sunlight the better. Light, especially sunlight, is the most powerful regulator of our biological clock, and unfortunately for those of us who work or go to school, you get limited time with natural sunlight.”

Scott Carpenter, director of public relations for Metroparks Toledo, said daylight saving time coincides with the start of warmer weather. The temperature increase, coupled with more daylight after working hours, brings more visitors to the region’s parks.

“Having that extra time after work or after school just gives people so many more opportunities to get out and get in their evening walk or run, or just go and enjoy the sunset on the river or out at Howard Marsh,” Mr. Carpenter said. “This gives us an extra hour in the evening to do programs.”

Time changes also offer a timely reminder to complete biannual household tasks. 

Pvt. Sheldon Collins, public information officer at the Toledo Fire & Rescue Department, said the department is encouraging everyone to “spring forward safely.”

“For daylight saving, everyone should check their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms,” he said. “You should have a smoke alarm on every floor of your home, and a carbon monoxide alarm on every floor — and I would have one near a bedroom.”

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested every six months, he said, but the battery should be replaced once a year — even if it can last longer. For alarms without removable batteries, make sure they have not exceeded their expiration dates. 

“Do not ignore the chirping in a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide alarm. Do not ignore it, because I know some people do, but [smoke detectors] really do save lives,” Pvt. Collins said.

First Published March 7, 2025, 6:45 p.m.